Vol. 423 No. 8
150 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Minister for Health the number of patients currently attending health board hospitals for kidney dialysis; the number of kidney dialysis machines available and operating; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
There are currently 147 patients attending health board hospitals for dialysis. In addition, 148 patients are receiving dialysis treatment in voluntary hospitals. There are 103 dialysis machines in health board and voluntary hospitals, of which 95 are in regular operation, the remainder being used for back-up purposes.
My Department is currently examining the possibility of further improving the renal dialysis service within the context of the resources which will be available for the health services in 1993.
